Students in American Legal Systems, taught by Katherine Currier, J.D., professor of paralegal and legal studies, recently had the opportunity to meet Domenic Sarno, mayor of Springfield. The class, which is a required course for all legal studies, paralegal, and criminal justice students, focuses on the three branches of government.

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Elms Brings Government to the Classroom

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Wed May 1, 2013

Students in American Legal Systems, taught by Katherine Currier, J.D., professor of paralegal and legal studies, recently had the opportunity to meet Domenic Sarno, mayor of Springfield. The class, which is a required course for all legal studies, paralegal, and criminal justice students, focuses on the three branches of government.

Professor Currier coordinated a series of speakers from each government branch including state representatives Mike Finn and Paul Mark representing the legislative branch, Springfield District Attorney Mark Mastroianni and Judge Barbara Hyland representing the judicial branch, and Mayor Sarno representing the executive branch.

Mayor Sarno stated that he was not there to give a speech but rather to hear from the students and to try and answer their concerns. He shared his thoughts about the importance of keeping the community safe, his views on the benefits of bringing a casino to Springfield, and the critical difference education can play.

"He is a very strong advocate of strengthening the neighborhoods in Springfield," noted Christopher Cefaratti '15. "He believes that if everyone has a positive attitude on making positive changes, then the crime and murder rates will decrease and Springfield will be a better place."

Mayor Sarno stressed the importance of going the extra mile to prove a point, and to be passionate and dedicated to what you do.